She said: “Three males were arrested for outstanding criminal offences. One of these has recently been released from prison and therefore will be returned to serve the remainder of his sentence.”

The operation was part of Cleveland Police’s week of action, which will see Gresham remain the main focus of police and partners’ attention over the next few days.

Activity from drug warrants to intensive street cleaning is taking place throughout the week, with participation from a number of partners including Cleveland Fire Brigade, community enforcement officers, probation and environmental health.

Insp Vickers, who is coordinating the week of action said: “Gresham community meetings are really well attended and it is the people themselves who have highlighted drug crime as a serious issue in the area.

“This activity should re-assure residents that we take their concerns extremely seriously and that we will do all that we can to tackle issues which can spoil the quality of life for the majority of the people, who are good, law-abiding citizens.”

Sgt Wade briefed the officers before they went on the raid.

He said: “We experience large amounts of calls from the people of Gresham related to drug crime.

“This raid and this week is about showing the people of Gresham that the police are there for them.

No arrests were made at the Harford Street address at the time but police are continuing their search of the property.